Romanian Court Upholds Ban on Far-Right Candidate Calin Georgescu
The Romanian Constitutional Court has upheld a ban on far-right candidate Calin Georgescu’s presidential candidacy for the May election rerun. This decision follows the annulment of a previous election where Georgescu was the front-runner. The ruling has provoked protests from his supporters, raising concerns about the current state of democracy and governance in Romania.
On March 11, 2025, Romania’s Constitutional Court upheld a ban on Calin Georgescu’s candidacy for the upcoming rerun of the presidential election. This decision follows the annulment of the previous election, in which Georgescu had initially emerged as the winner. The court’s unanimous ruling was made shortly after the Central Election Bureau rejected his candidacy, though the specific grounds for the ruling were not disclosed.
The court’s decision incited protests from hundreds of Georgescu’s supporters, who gathered outside the court, chanting against the perceived corruption of the electoral system. The Central Election Bureau had previously cited electoral violations and allegations of Russian interference in the canceled election as reasons for the ban. The court’s move is expected to exacerbate existing tensions in Romania, a nation grappling with a political crisis since last year’s elections.
In a response video, Georgescu claimed that the political system is resistant to newcomers and criticized Romania’s reliance on EU financial aid and NATO defense. He framed his candidacy as a struggle against widespread corruption and injustices, stating, “Democracy and freedom are taking their last breath.” The rerun of the first round is scheduled for May 4, with a runoff planned for May 18 if necessary.
Georgescu’s party, holding around a third of Romania’s legislative seats, is under pressure to nominate a new candidate by March 15. George Simion, a close ally, expressed determination to confront what he labeled as an attack on democracy and the rule of law following the court’s ruling. Meanwhile, prosecutors are investigating Georgescu for allegations including incitement against the constitutional order and supporting extremist groups.
Georgescu has acknowledged no wrongdoing amidst accusations of electoral misconduct and Russian involvement. Despite having praised Russian President Vladimir Putin in the past, he maintains his stance as non-pro-Russian. The annulment of the previous election and the barring of Georgescu have drawn criticism from various figures, including U.S. Vice President JD Vance and Elon Musk, with the Kremlin suggesting any election without Georgescu would lack legitimacy.
Post-ruling reactions from Romanian political leaders highlight a profound division within society. Elena Lasconi emphasized the need for public trust in institutions, arguing that the ruling could exacerbate frustration and distrust. Similarly, incumbent Mayor Nicusor Dan condemned the state of political affairs, calling for unity and a renewed fight against corruption. Both expressed concern for the fragile state of Romanian democracy and the need for a unified response to political unrest.
In conclusion, Romania’s Constitutional Court’s decision to uphold the ban on Calin Georgescu’s presidential candidacy has sparked significant protests and highlighted tensions within the country’s political landscape. Georgescu’s supporters, expressing anger and frustration, argue this ruling undermines democracy. The upcoming elections could lead to further political instability in Romania, with calls for unity and reform resonating among prominent political figures in response to these developments.
Original Source: apnews.com
